Florida Takes the Lead in Regulating AI, Putting OpenAI in its Crosshairs

Florida Republicans led by Gov. Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier are driving the strongest AI regulation push in red America, including a lawsuit to force safeguards on OpenAI’s ChatGPT. With DeSantis-backed bills stalled in the Legislature, the attorney general seeks stricter controls and parental data protections, while GOP candidates pledge hard-state rules even as a national framework remains uncertain. The effort reflects voter fears about job loss, security, and the impact of AI on communities, and signals Florida’s willingness to act unilaterally if federal action stalls.